This is one definition: Put together, 'narrative non-fiction' is a true story written in the style of a fiction novel. Literary nonfiction and creative nonfiction are also terms used instead of or in association with narrative nonfiction. They all refer to the same thing – using literary techniques and styles to tell a true story.
Another way narrative non-fiction is described: Traditional nonfiction is a straight forward survey of a given topic. They are written in clear, concise language in an expository style. Informational fiction presents facts and information within a fictional story. Narrative nonfiction tells a true story with no made up parts in the form of a narrative.
What are the elements of a nonfiction narrative? The elements within narrative nonfiction are similar to those found within novels, including:
- well-developed characters,
- engaging dialogue,
- a story that follows a narrative arc,
- an identifiable theme,
- the use of literary devices such as symbolism and imagery.
I found a fabulous video about narrative nonfiction.
If you write memoir or other nonfiction, the author on the video gives some good advice.
